Forest Festival Turns 80!
A parade, a pageant, and Paul Bunyan, 80 years ago Mason County had it's own ideas about raising awareness about fire prevention. To help combat the destructive wildfires — while also promoting the importance of forests — Mason County hosted the first annual forest festival in the spring of 1945.
The history of the area is closely tied with logging operations in the area. In 1853, Michael T. Simmons built the first sawmill in Mason County on Mill Creek just south of Shelton. Around this same time, David Shelton staked a claim on a nearby inlet off Puget Sound. Sol G. Simpson came to the area and founded the Simpson Logging Company in the 1890s. The Simpson Company eventually expanded throughout the country.
Fire SafeTY & Timber Strong
The first Mason County Forest Festival showcased the value of timber, while demonstrating the importance of safeguarding the forests against fires. The ninth Forest Festival celebrated the 100th anniversary of logging operations in Mason County, and a monumental sign carved into a slice of Douglas fir was permanently dedicated in it’s location overlooking Shelton’s Oakland Bay. The sign can be still viewed today at Outlook Park.
People from all over Washington region flocked to Shelton to see “the dramatic Forest Pageant, the thrilling parade and the exciting contests of loggers falling, bucking, and tree topping." On the festival’s final day in 1953 30,000 people — six times the regular population of the town — crowded into Shelton to watch the Paul Bunyan Parade."
Attending? Here’s What to expect:
In 2024 Forest Festival will celebrate 80 years. With eight decades of courts and 1000s of volunteer hours this festival is a testament to the community's connection to its timber heritage, both as a natural resource to use and to protect. This year's festivities include classic elements that make this festival special as well as a few extra events.
Carnival
May 30 - June 2 | Grove & First, Shelton
Fun rides, games, and delicious fair food for all ages to enjoy.
Smokey Bear's 80th Birthday Party
May 31, 6 - 9 PM | 425 Cota St, Shelton
Games, food, prizes, axe throwing, and music with KMAS 1030AM/103.3 FM
Goldsborough Creek Run
June 1, 6:30 AM | Railroad Ave, Shelton
Different start times and age levels, start Forest Festival Saturday with a little cardio.
Fire Station Pancake Breakfast
June 1, 7 - 11 AM | 122 W Franklin St, Shelton
Pre-parade breakfast to support the local fire department.
Family & Pet Parade before the Paul Bunyan Grand Parade
June 1, 10:30 AM | Railroad Ave, Shelton
Everyone is welcome to participate in the Family parade before the Grand parade features colorful floats, marching bands, goups & businesses.
Logging Show & Vendor Showcase
June 1, 12 PM | Loop Field, Shelton
Food, crafts, vendors and a tdisplay of forestry skills, including log rolling, and axe throwing.
Rockin' The Forest Live Music and Dancing
June 1, 6 PM | OurCU, Olympic Ave, Shelton
All ages live music to keep the energy high and entertain festival-goers before the fireworks show.
Fireworks Show
June 1, 10 PM | Wallace Kneeland Blvd area, Shelton
A spectacular evening display lighting up the sky.
Shelton Car Show Off
June 2, 10-3 PM | Olympic Hwy
Supports the NJROTC cadets’ leadership program and activities. Registration 8 -11AM.
For more information about the 80th anniversary Forest Festival and how to plan your visit, click the link below!